Kantara Chapter 1: Rishab Shetty’s Devotion, Zero Pay, and the ₹1000 Crore Dream
Kannada superstar Rishab Shetty is back in the limelight as his highly anticipated prequel, Kantara: Chapter 1, gears up for release on October 2, 2025. The film has already created waves among fans, not just for its thrilling storyline but also for the dedication and sacrifices of its lead actor-director.
Rishab Shetty’s Unique Preparation for Bhuta Kola Scenes
During a recent press meet in Kerala, Rishab opened up about the intense preparation he undertook for the Bhuta Kola sequences in the film. “I did not eat non-vegetarian food or wear footwear during some portions,” he revealed. “It’s not something I’ve done before, but I needed clarity of mind while performing. These scenes demanded a spiritual focus, and I wanted to respect that.”
He also ensured that these sequences were shot with minimal crew around. “Normally, a set has thousands of people, but I kept it limited. I respect every belief, and I expect the same in return,” Rishab added.
Rishab also addressed viral posts claiming certain rituals for viewers before watching the movie. He clarified, “Nobody has the right to question someone’s eating or habits. Those posts were made by fans, not by the team or me.”
Pre-Sales Performance: A Slow Start in the USA
While anticipation is sky-high, pre-sale tickets in the USA have seen a moderate start. Released on September 18, the film made USD 51,685 on the first day across 1,700 locations. By the eighth day, it had minted just over USD 190,000. Although modest, this reflects growing interest for Kannada cinema internationally, as the original Kantara had crossed USD 1 million in North America.
The prequel is releasing in Kannada, Telugu, and Hindi, and will face competition in India from Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor’s Sunny Sankari ki Tulsi Kumari, with both films vying for maximum screens.
A Zero-Pay Star Betting on Kantara’s Potential
Adding to the buzz, reports reveal that Rishab Shetty has not taken any remuneration for Kantara: Chapter 1. Much like Yash’s strategy with KGF, Rishab opted for a profit-sharing model, believing in the film’s potential to become a blockbuster.
“Kantara created a universe that fans loved. With Chapter 1, the budget is higher, and I chose to invest both creatively and financially,” sources say. The original Kantara grossed ₹407.82 crore worldwide, and trade experts predict that the prequel has the potential to cross ₹1000 crore globally, depending on audience reception.
Rishab’s career trajectory—from hits like Kirik Party and Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana to crafting the Kantara universe—demonstrates his commitment to both storytelling and Kannada cinema. By taking zero upfront pay, he shows faith in the project while setting a precedent for actors in regional cinema.
The Road Ahead
With Kantara: Chapter 1 set to hit theaters in just a few days, fans are eagerly awaiting Rishab Shetty’s intense portrayal of a fierce naga sadhu. The prequel promises thrilling folklore, high-octane action, and spiritual mysticism that made the original a pan-Indian sensation.
Whether it becomes the ₹1000 crore blockbuster experts are predicting remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Rishab Shetty’s dedication and faith in his creation have already made this cinematic journey unforgettable.
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